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Judith Vanterpool named new HLSCC President

Judith Vanterpool

Judith Vanterpool will officially take the reins as the new President of the H Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) on August 1.

Vanterpool is the wife of government minister Mark Vanterpool and also the current Vice President of the educational facility. She succeeds Dr Janet Smith, who will demit office on July 31.

Chairman of the HLSCC Board, Dr Charles Wheatley made the announcement during the college’s graduation ceremony yesterday, June 28.

He said he was confident in Vanterpool’s capabilities.

“Now, if anybody can tell you about the strengths of that little woman, I can. In another life, I had to make decisions which would have affected her future so I know what I am talking about … She worked with me for 14 years at this institution when I was president,” Dr Wheatley said.

He then told the newly-appointed college president: “Mrs V, as we affectionately call you, I hope you will do what is just and what is right for your people and for the territory and I wish you well.”

Dr Wheatley also had kind words for the outgoing college president.

“Dr Smith, I want to thank you sincerely for the contributions that you have made to this institution over the years. I think your service will always be remembered,” he said.

“You had challenges, which were the typical challenges of the whole territory this academic year. But you have come through. We wish you joy, happiness and self-fulfilment in all your future endeavours.”

Education Minister Myron Walwyn also said a ‘special thank you’ to Dr Smith and requested a standing ovation on her behalf.

“Dr Smith has worked with this college in various capacities since its inception — culminating in being the president for the last two years. [She has] also been a very good driving force behind the accreditation for the institution. We thank you for your hard work and diligence, Dr Smith,” said Walwyn.

Dr Smith told BVI News her appointment as college president two years ago was an interim position. She said now that she has fulfilled her role, she is looking forward to returning to a happy retirement.

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10 Comments

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  1. YESHHH says:

    Thank you, the —- Finally gone

  2. Putee says:

    We are so proud of you and your accomplishments..I know you will do well.My husband and I are praying for you.

  3. Wellsaw says:

    College needs someone with experience in managing a college and having strong and influential international contacts.

  4. Feminist says:

    No-one, whoever they are, should refer to a female colleague as ‘that little woman’ in this day and age. I hope and pray that Ms. Vanterpool has the strength and courage to offer strength and empowerment to all youth, whatever their gender, abilities or individual strengths or challenges. He should hang his head in shame and she must rise above prejudice.

    • CW says:

      Nobody should have to curb their speech to suit the comments section of the BVI news. He didn’t say anything derogatory- he used adje tives that are identifying characteristics without a hint of negativity. In fact- a female being named to a prominent education position should be the takeaway from this. But hey, you’re in the BVI (b*tchy Virgin islands) where no matter the news, good or bad, it is never good enough to appease those who Only contribute minimally at best. Keep complaining about a good thing though. Have a great life being negative yourself but complaining about others’ LACK of negativity. Maybe you should be in politics hahaha

      • Feminist says:

        Dr Wheatley should, as a prominent figure in education, have chosen his words better. His words are of the ‘50’s and derogatory to the generation of young women making their way in a difficult world. They, as all young people, should have encouragement and positivity. Ms Vanterpool has risen to the top of her profession and should be described in a professional manner by her peers. My comment was not negative- merely sadness that a woman of ability be described in such terms in a public forum. His words were fond but not appropriate for the occasion.

      • Hark the harol says:

        Boss you sound more bitchy with your false self have a seat

    • Brad Boynes says:

      Arrhh.put several Sox in your mouth female lover. Words are.

  5. DIGESTING THE COMMENTS says:

    Lord have mercy.
    People just congratulate Mrs. Vanterpool!
    The article suggests that congratulations are in order.
    Geeeese Man!

    Keep it positive!!!!!!!!

  6. SMH says:

    CONGRATULATIONS MRS VANTERPOOL…

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